Heat Stroke & Dehydration

Discuss Pet Dehydration and Heatstroke With Our Tucson Veterinarians

Summer is a hot time of year in Tucson, AZ, and it can be just as dangerous for your pets as it can be for you. Pet dehydration and pet heatstroke can occur quickly in hot weather and have serious effects on your pets. When you need information about dehydration and heatstroke or are concerned your pets are dehydrated, visiting your veterinarian at the Twin Peaks Veterinary Center in Tucson, Arizona can help protect your pets' health.

The Importance of Pet Hydration

Whether your pet goes outside or not, it's important to keep them hydrated. The amount of water your pet needs varies based on their size, activity level, and what food they eat. For example, a medium-sized dog that eats dry food and plays outside a lot will drink more water than a small cat that eats wet food and is not very active.

Just like keeping humans hydrated, keeping your pets hydrated protects their health. The body needs water to function properly, and if your pet isn't getting enough water, they are at risk of health problems, including urinary tract infections and other serious conditions. If your pet spends time outside and isn't hydrated properly, your pet may be at risk for heatstroke, which can have very serious consequences.

How Pet Heatstroke Occurs

Heatstroke occurs when your pet is in an environment that raises their body temperature too high and they are unable to cool down, for example, a dog that is forced to spend all day in the sun without water. Dehydration is one way heatstroke can occur. Water helps cool your pet's body, but if your pet isn't getting enough water, their body will be more likely to retain the heat. Symptoms of dehydration and overheating can increase, culminating in heatstroke. If your pet reaches the level of heatstroke, their organs can start shutting down and, ultimately, they are at risk of death from heatstroke.

Signs Your Pet is Dehydrated

There are some signs that your pet may be dehydrated that you can use as warning signs that they need water. Those signs include:

Lethargy or reduced energy

Decreased appetite

Dry nose and gums

Less skin elasticity

Excessive panting

When you see these signs, you should give your pet water to rehydrate them and try to prevent heatstroke from occurring. If your pet is unwilling or unable to drink water or has had signs of dehydration for some time, it's a good idea to take your pet to a veterinarian for evaluation.

Contact Twin Peaks Veterinary Clinic Today

Whether you're concerned your pet is dehydrated or at risk of heatstroke, or you want information about pet dehydration or pet heatstroke, call your veterinarian at Twin Peaks Veterinary Center in Tucson to make an appointment today at (520) 572-8300.

Sign-up using the form or call us at (520) 572-8300 to make an appointment